MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — More than 5,000 public school teachers in Bukidnon took their oath on March 19 under a Department of Education (DepEd) reform that removes promotion bottlenecks and fast-tracks career growth, advancing the “Bagong Pilipinas” effort to strengthen the teaching workforce

Teachers from the Schools Division Offices of Bukidnon, Malaybalay City, and Valencia City have been promoted through the Expanded Career Progression (ECP) system, which allows for promotion based on qualifications and performance rather than waiting for vacant plantilla positions.

The reform supports President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to invest in teachers by expanding opportunities for professional growth and improving the delivery of basic education services.

DepEd Undersecretary Wilfredo Cabral said the ECP reform addresses long-standing concerns about limited promotion opportunities due to the shortage of vacant plantilla positions.

“Under Expanded Career Progression, teachers no longer need to wait for someone to retire before they can be promoted. Now, there are more opportunities and shorter waiting times for career advancement,” Cabral said.

He said the reform recognizes teachers’ competence and readiness, a move widely welcomed by educators seeking fair and timely career progression.

ECP offers two career tracks—Classroom Teaching (CT) and School Administration (SA)—so educators can pursue paths aligned with their skills and career goals.

DepEd Region 10 Director Dr. Arturo B. Bayocot said the ceremony not only formalizes promotions but also reinforces teachers’ commitment to quality education.

Bayocot said clear career tracks empower teachers to grow professionally while strengthening classroom instruction and school leadership.

“The developments we celebrate today reflect our collective commitment to quality education for Filipino learners,” he said.

He said the reform translates national policy into real benefits for teachers, boosting morale and improving school performance.

Dr. Rolisa Benedicto of Quezon Bukidnon Comprehensive National High School advanced from Principal III to Principal IV, the highest rank for school heads.

“I am proud to reach this milestone. Twenty-five of my colleagues also earned well-deserved promotions,” Benedicto said.

Teachers welcomed the reform, saying faster promotion timelines and clearer pathways improve motivation, job satisfaction, and service delivery in classrooms.

DepEd officials said that the ECP supports the administration’s agenda by expanding career opportunities in public education, ensuring that gains for teachers translate into better learning results. (BGE/PIA-10/Bukidnon)